A review of adults with disabilities transitioning from their family home to community settings

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:This study examined the experiences of adults with disabilities (AWDs) transitioning to community based residential settings. This field of study has not been sufficiently researched despite being a key aspect of adulthood. METHOD:A literature review of articles relating to residential transitions for AWDs was undertaken. FINDINGS:The literature review findings could be grouped around three main categories: AWDs' perception and self-determination, caregivers' perceptions of the process and, lastly, the insights from service providers and social policies. The review and feedback identified issues experienced during the residential transition, such as feelings of readiness to transit which relate closely to the person's self-determination. As the study delved deeper into the residential transition process in Aotearoa New Zealand, AWDs are noted to be vulnerable persons always requiring support in order to develop and maintain their independence. IMPLICATIONS:Substantive state recognition, such as a social compact, is the key groundwork for this marginalised group to develop self-efficacy, have successful transition experiences and sustain good lives. Eventually, this must be in the form of Crown-binding legislation, where vulnerable adults are served through restorative and protective policies. KEYWORDS: disability, adult disability, independent living

The Family and Disability in Ghana: Highlighting Gaps in Achieving Social Inclusion

“…The argument has been that these adjustments could enhance the living standards of persons with disabilities who are usually without jobs. In achieving this goal, the family is expected to liaise between their members with disabilities and society as a whole (Aldersey, 2012;Aldersey et al, 2017;Lim, 2017;Nishio et al, 2017;Sauer & Lalvani, 2017). This study aimed to examine the support given by families to enable the full inclusion of persons with disabilities.…”

“…Interestingly, in advanced societies, the situation seems not too different as families delegate their caregiving responsibility to carers or even keep their children with disabilities in respite homes (Nakade et al, 2017;Sauer & Lalvani, 2017;Tough et al, 2017). This contributes to poor social networks or weak bonds between the family and the child (Lim, 2017). This lead to situations where siblings are unable to support each other or grow up together and develop a strong relationship (Jacobs & MacMahon, 2017).…”